In The Social Contract, Rousseau boldly presents his vision of political justice, advocating for the foundation, organization, and administration of a truly just and legitimate state. With his signature audacity, he makes a compelling case for direct democracy, while condemning all other forms of government as illegitimate and akin to slavery. Celebrated as a revolutionary text that played a pivotal role in igniting the French Revolution, this work not only fuels discontent with existing governments but also inspires readers to imagine and strive for a radically different political and social order. (Summary by Eric Jonas)